How much does a Payroll Manager make?
A Payroll Manager earns a competitive salary. On average, they make about $104,466 per year. This role is crucial for making sure employees get paid on time. It also involves managing payroll systems and handling benefits.
The salary can change based on experience, location, and company size. For example, a Payroll Manager in a large city might earn more than one in a smaller town. Those with more experience often see higher pay, too. Companies in certain industries may offer higher salaries to attract skilled professionals.
Payroll Managers can expect their earnings to grow with more experience and taking on additional responsibilities. Many people in this role find it rewarding work with good job stability and opportunities for advancement.
What are the highest paying cities for a Payroll Manager?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $127,354
In San Francisco, this role offers a dynamic environment with tech giants. Companies like Google and Salesforce need skilled managers. The cost of living is high, but so are the salaries.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $124,425
Seattle provides a vibrant atmosphere with companies such as Amazon and Microsoft. Professionals here enjoy a balanced lifestyle. The city's growth brings many opportunities.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $122,962
Baltimore offers a mix of tradition and modernity. With institutions like Johns Hopkins, the demand for experienced managers is steady. The city's rich history adds to its charm.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $122,901
San Jose, the heart of Silicon Valley, is bustling with tech companies. Apple and Cisco are prominent here, offering exciting career paths. The fast-paced environment suits dynamic professionals.
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Detroit, MI
Average Salary: $122,502
Detroit's automotive industry provides a strong backdrop for this role. Companies like General Motors and Ford are always in need of dedicated professionals. The city's resilience makes it an attractive place to work.
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Dallas, TX
Average Salary: $121,620
Dallas offers a mix of urban and friendly environments. With businesses like AT&T and ExxonMobil, opportunities are plentiful. The city's growth ensures a steady demand for skilled managers.
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Atlanta, GA
Average Salary: $118,546
Atlanta is a fast-growing city with major companies like Coca-Cola and Delta Air Lines. The Southern hospitality adds to the welcoming atmosphere. Career advancement opportunities are abundant.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $116,728
Washington, DC, offers a unique blend of politics and business. Major firms like Deloitte and the World Bank need proficient managers. The city’s rich history adds to the professional experience.
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Tampa, FL
Average Salary: $116,496
Tampa provides a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Companies like AdventHealth and Raymond James Financial are prominent. The laid-back lifestyle makes it an attractive place for work-life balance.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $113,227
Minneapolis offers a blend of urban living and natural beauty. Companies such as Target and 3M need skilled professionals. The city’s vibrant culture adds to the appeal.
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What are the best companies a Payroll Manager can work for?

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Deloitte
Average Salary: $185,986
Deloitte offers Payroll Manager positions with a high average salary. They operate globally and offer varied opportunities for Payroll Managers to work in many different locations. Their Payroll Managers handle complex payroll operations, ensuring compliance and accuracy.
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Accenture
Average Salary: $176,850
Accenture provides Payroll Manager jobs with a strong average salary. Accenture operates worldwide, giving Payroll Managers chances to work in multiple countries. Their Payroll Managers focus on delivering effective payroll solutions and supporting client needs across different regions.
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KPMG
Average Salary: $175,220
KPMG offers competitive salaries for Payroll Manager positions. They have offices in many cities around the world, providing diverse experiences for Payroll Managers. KPMG Payroll Managers ensure accurate payroll processing and compliance with regulations.
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PwC
Average Salary: $163,797
PwC provides Payroll Manager jobs with a solid average salary. They operate in multiple locations globally, offering varied experiences for Payroll Managers. PwC Payroll Managers handle payroll systems, ensuring accurate and timely processing.
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FedEx
Average Salary: $107,596
FedEx offers Payroll Manager positions with a good average salary. They have many locations in various countries, providing opportunities for Payroll Managers to work in diverse environments. FedEx Payroll Managers manage payroll systems and ensure employee compensation is processed accurately.
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Aston Carter
Average Salary: $105,037
Aston Carter provides Payroll Manager jobs with a solid average salary. They operate in numerous locations, giving Payroll Managers the chance to work in different areas. Aston Carter Payroll Managers focus on managing payroll processes and supporting clients effectively.
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Robert Half
Average Salary: $102,382
Robert Half offers Payroll Manager positions with a decent average salary. They have offices in many cities, providing varied opportunities for Payroll Managers. Robert Half Payroll Managers ensure accurate payroll processing and provide payroll-related advice to clients.
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Addison Group
Average Salary: $100,636
Addison Group provides Payroll Manager jobs with a good average salary. They operate in multiple locations, offering diverse experiences for Payroll Managers. Addison Group Payroll Managers manage payroll systems and ensure timely and accurate payroll processing.
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Vaco
Average Salary: $99,115
Vaco offers Payroll Manager positions with a solid average salary. They have offices in various locations, providing opportunities for Payroll Managers to work in different settings. Vaco Payroll Managers handle payroll operations and ensure compliance with payroll regulations.
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Applebee's
Average Salary: $58,000
Applebee's provides Payroll Manager jobs with a lower average salary. They have many locations across the U.S., offering opportunities for Payroll Managers to work in the restaurant industry. Applebee's Payroll Managers focus on processing payroll for restaurant staff accurately.
How to earn more as a Payroll Manager?
Becoming a Payroll Manager can lead to a rewarding career with good earnings. Several factors can help increase your income in this role. It is important to focus on both professional development and strategic career moves.
One of the key factors to earning more as a Payroll Manager includes gaining relevant certifications. Certifications such as Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) or Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) can demonstrate your expertise. These credentials can make you more valuable to employers and open up higher-paying job opportunities.
Another factor to consider is gaining experience in different industries. Payroll practices can vary widely between industries. By having experience across multiple sectors, you can become a more versatile and knowledgeable professional. This versatility can make you a more attractive candidate for higher-paying positions.
Expanding your skill set also plays a crucial role in earning more. Learning to use advanced payroll software and becoming proficient in data analysis can set you apart. These skills allow you to streamline processes and improve efficiency, which can lead to salary increases.
Networking within the payroll industry is another important factor. Building relationships with other professionals can lead to job opportunities and insights into higher-paying roles. Attending industry conferences, joining professional associations, and engaging on LinkedIn can help you connect with others in the field.
Lastly, seeking opportunities for advancement within your company can help increase your earnings. Employers often promote from within, so demonstrating your dedication and capabilities can lead to raises and higher positions.



